Brixen - Villach

The first stage takes you from Bressanone to Brunico through the picturesque Puster Valley. Cycle through meadows, forests and small Alpine villages, surrounded by the impressive mountain scenery of South Tyrol. A varied and scenic route, ideal for beginning your journey and discovering this fascinating region.

From Brunico, follow the Puster Valley cycle path along the Rienz River, cycling through the valley’s characteristic villages and surrounded by an alpine landscape of meadows, forests and spectacular views of the Dolomites. The route gradually climbs towards Dobbiaco (Toblach) / Villabassa (Niederdorf), at an altitude of around 1,250 m. A pleasant ride through the heart of the Puster Valley, ideal for discovering the landscape and the small villages along the way at a leisurely pace.

Today you leave Dobbiaco/Villabassa and cycle to San Candido before crossing the Italian border near Prato alla Drava. From here, a gentle descent takes you gradually to Lienz and to the confluence of the Isel and Drau rivers. With an average of 2,000 hours of sunshine per year, this is the sunniest holiday region in Austria.

The day starts in Lienz, at the point where the Isel flows into the Drau, and follows the scenic Drau Cycle Path along the river. The route winds through the alpine landscape of the valley, passing meadows, forests and small villages, along an ancient trade route already used in Roman times.
About 5 km after Lienz, you will reach Aguntum, the ancient Roman city and museum, which is well worth a visit. The route then continues along the cycle path to Oberdrauburg, where you can visit the Perchten and Alpine Pasture Museum and an old mill, before continuing to Berg im Drautal. A pleasant stage surrounded by nature, combining alpine landscapes, charming villages and traces of the valley’s Roman history.

From Berg, the route takes you through idyllic landscapes and past small, charming villages to Spittal an der Drau. Shortly after leaving Berg, you reach Greifenburg, where a high ropes course is located. There is also the option of taking a detour to Lake Millstätter See for a refreshing swim or a relaxing break. Spittal is famous for its theatre performances at Porcia Castle, one of the most beautiful Renaissance castles in Austria and well worth a visit.

Today’s stage takes you from Spittal an der Drau to Villach, the second-largest city in Carinthia, beautifully situated between mountains and lakes. Lively and rich in traditions, the city is well worth exploring on foot, with its historic centre offering plenty of opportunities for a pleasant break. In the surrounding area, you can visit the nearby Lake Ossiach and Lake Faak, both ideal for a relaxing stop by the water. If you still have enough time and energy, a visit to Landskron Castle is well worthwhile, offering beautiful views over the region as well as impressive birds of prey shows. Nearby, you will also find Affenberg, a natural park where around 180 Japanese macaques live freely in a large wooded area. A day combining the charm of Villach with the beauty of Carinthia’s lakes and mountains.
Day 8: Individual departure from Villach
Individual departure or the possibility of extending your stay.